“PulseFit takes any allegations of misconduct seriously. We have launched an independent investigation and have temporarily suspended all private scouting sessions. The individual identified as the “agent” is no longer associated with our studio.”
The statement also announced mandatory training for all staff on workplace harassment, consent, and appropriate influencer outreach.
Lucia’s name surfaced in the scandal after a leaked Instagram DM thread (shared by an anonymous source) showed a conversation between her and the talent‑agent:
Agent: “We need something extra for the next shoot. Think you can give us a quick ‘bunny‑hop’ sequence? … No‑show if you can’t.”
Lucia: “Sure, I’m on it. When do you need it?” backroomcastingcouch lucia rossi gym bunny upd
The DM thread later turned into a public argument when Lucia’s manager posted a screenshot stating that Lucia never consented to any “bunny‑hop” that involved nudity or sexual content. The manager’s statement emphasized that Lucia had been coerced by the promise of a major brand partnership and that she felt pressured to comply.
The film’s UPD (or “update”) element shines through in its commentary on modern talent discovery. In today’s hyper‑connected world, a single Gym Bunny video can launch a career overnight, but the film asks: at what cost? Lucia’s internal monologue (presented via voice‑over “updates” that appear as text messages on screen) serves as a meta‑narrative device, reminding viewers that every decision is being logged, evaluated, and, ultimately, “updated” in the talent pipeline.
The film also touches on gender dynamics, power imbalance, and the commodification of bodies—particularly through the lens of the “casting couch” metaphor. It doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable moments, but it handles them with enough subtlety to avoid gratuitous exploitation. “PulseFit takes any allegations of misconduct seriously
In a 15‑minute YouTube video titled “UPD – My Experience & Moving Forward,” Lucia addressed the controversy head‑on:
A civil lawsuit filed in the Southern District of New York alleges sexual harassment, fraud, and breach of contract against the former agent, the PulseFit studio, and a partnering supplement brand. The complaint seeks $2.5 M in damages and a permanent injunction against any “private scouting” practices at fitness facilities.
Lucia Rossi (23) burst onto the social‑media scene in early 2024 with the moniker Gym‑Bunny. Her signature mix of high‑energy workout reels, pastel‑colored athleisure looks, and candid “day‑in‑the‑life” vlogs quickly earned her: The statement also announced mandatory training for all
| Platform | Followers (April 2026) | |----------|------------------------| | TikTok | 3.9 M | | Instagram| 2.2 M | | YouTube | 1.1 M |
Her brand deals – from protein powders to boutique active‑wear – have reportedly brought in $1.2 M in revenue over the past 12 months alone. The meteoric climb made her a prime target for talent‑scouts looking to “discover the next fitness star”.
In late 2025, several up‑and‑coming fitness creators posted anonymous tips on Reddit’s r/InfluencerWatch and Twitter, alleging that a private “backroom” in the PulseFit studio (located on 5th Avenue, Manhattan) was being used as an informal casting couch. According to the claims: